News

4.16.24

At the Monday, April 15, 2024 City Council meeting, Mayor Brian Poochigian presented a resolution on behalf of the City Council proclaiming the third week of April Public Safety Telecommunications Week in the City of Visalia.

The Council's recognition corresponds with National Public Safety Telecommunications Week.

“These are more than just voices on the telephone line, these are local police and fire professionals who use safety telecommunications to quickly respond to emergency calls,” read Mayor Poochigian. “These dedicated men and women are the first responders, and are more than anonymous voices on the telephone line. They are local police and fire professionals.”

The professionals of the City of Visalia’s public safety telecommunications team, often referred to as communications operators or dispatchers, answer over 300,000 calls every year.

The City Council thanked staff for their commitment, dedication, and professionalism.

“When someone calls, you guys are the first voice someone hears, and most of the time you’re the ones calming them down. That is so important when someone is having one of the worst days of their life, to have a calm voice on that call,” added Poochigian.

Six members of the City’s public safety telecommunications team were in attendance to receive the resolution.

“We would like to say thank you to you guys also, for recognizing us, thank you,” shared Michelle Nelson, Communications Supervisor.

Police Chief Jason Salazar then addressed the Council.

“As you said briefly, they really are the true first responders and we appreciate all that they do. They have a very difficult job, and we couldn’t do what we do without them,” stated Salazar. “We’re really proud of what they do.”